May 2013 Fun in the Sun?

Marquee The

volume 27 | issue 07 | may 10, 2013

mhsmarquee.com

Fun in the sun?

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Students and faculty raise money for West explosion

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Former student returns as Chemistry teacher

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MARCUS HIGH SCHOOL | 5707 MORRISS ROAD. FLOWER MOUND, TX 75028

The Marquee advises mood, food, movie combinations

table of contents

the marquee [newsmagazine] editor in chief jordan richards

managing editor marisa charpentier

photo editor jordan richards

design editor amanda collen

news & feature editor marisa charpentier

asst. feature editor maddy ermenio

graphics editor sydney sund

in-depth & opinion editor ryan mcdearmont

asst. in-depth editor

news

austin rickerson

entertainment editor

[4] NEW ADDITIONS Freshman center

courtney clubb

sports editor

construction begins on campus. story austin rickerson and maddy ermenio

photo jordan richards

cover photo

jordan richards

sydney sund

business manager hailey painter

feature [9] FRESH BEATS Junior creates club to teach students the art of beat boxing. story anna middleton

reporters maddy ermenio, miranda chiechi, alyssa schmidt, ben horton, austin rickerson, madi schwem, sydney sund, anna middleton

designers

sydney sund, courtney clubb, jordan richards, hailey painter, tori allmendinger

photographers

amanda collen, kady kohankie, ben horton, michele papa, miranda chiechi

entertainment [15] GET A LAUGH The Marquee sits down with three teachers to uncover funny school incidents. story miranda chiechi

sports [18] POWDERPUFF Junior and senior girls prepare for annual flag football game. story ryan mcdearmont

adviser

lajuana hale

principal gary shafferman The Marquee newsmagazine is a student-generated publication of Marcus High School. It is produced, edited and maintained through the efforts of the school’s advanced journalism class. The Marquee is designed to serve the school and community as a forum for open discussion and student expression.

The Marquee encourages letters to the editor as part of its mission to educate, inform and provide an open forum for debate. All submissions must be signed. The staff reserves the right to edit all material.

Editorials reflect the opinion of the staff, not necessarily that of the administration. Signed columns or reviews represent only the opinion of the author.

Advertising rates are $70 per 1/8 of a page, with discounts available. For more information call 469-7135196.

The Marquee is a standing member of ILPC, TAJE, ATPI, CSPA, NSPA, JEA and Quill and Scroll.

NEWS

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Gun control stirs debate

Recent legislation on gun control voted down

story alyssa schmidt President Obama’s gun control proposals were not able to pass in Congress last month, and the battle is still raging. Last week in Houston, Texas, at a National Rifle Association’s Stand and Fight meeting, Governor Rick Perry was featured on a video that showed him shooting at targets with a military style rifle. Television and radio host Glen Beck also made a speech where he voiced his opinion on the President’s gun control proposals. He warned the audience that guns are only a reflection of the people who are behind the trigger.

“They want to fundamentally transform our country and they’ve just about finished the project,” Beck said to the audience. “They feel they must regulate until we comply, but I will not comply.”

However, other Americans have been contacting their senators and congressmen demanding that the proposals

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States like Minnesota and Ohio have introduced bills to raise the minimum wage after President Obama proposed the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2013 at his State of the Union Address on Feb 12. This act calls for a raise in minimum wage and the continued adjustment of minimum wage with the cost of living each year.

But Texas’ minimum wage hasn’t been raised yet.

Texas is one of the states with the highest percentage of hourly workers that are being paid minimum wage. A large majority of the 4.4 million workers in the country being paid minimum wage or lower are younger than 25, so if this change is made, it would directly affect many Texans and teenagers. Economics teacher Phil Cooke said this will also affect businesses, especially small businesses.

“There may be some consequences with smaller companies as far as cost of benefits or having to cut back on a number of employees,” Cooke said.

Although concrete evidence is lacking to confirm that less employment will occur because of the act, Cooke said it is possible. He said that although it could initially be beneficial for the younger generation, in the long run, they may be affected negatively by a shortage of jobs. Junior Peter Hatton said he can see how raising the minimum wage would affect current adolescents.

“It could make it harder for younger people to get jobs because if [minimum wage] goes up, then businesses might not hire as many people,” Hatton said. “They might want people who are more experienced in the workplace.”

Despite the talk of the possibility of less employment, senior Brooke Koebrick said she sees the act as a beneficial contribution to people in the workplace.

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Another part of Obama’s plan was to include more extensive mental health screenings.

“Addressing mental health will definitely help with the problem of mass shootings,” Resource Officer Devin York said. “Another thing that would be beneficial would be laws that restrict people with mental health problems from purchasing firearms.”

The plan also included, putting more money into making schools a more nurturing environment for students who are suffering with mental health issues, trauma and anxiety.

Obama said that he hopes that doing this will help people before they get to the point of mass shooters such as Sandy Hook shooter, Adam Lanza.

“A lot of people who commit these kinds of acts are not completely mentally stable, so if people are more stable and know more about their society, then we have less of a chance to have bad things happen,” Tinwala said.

Voting on the proposals took place in the Senate and the House of Representatives on April 17. After the voting, President Obama held a press conference where he voiced that he was disgusted over the fact that they would not want to pass more background checks. He said that there were no coherent arguments for why the laws would not pass and called it a shameful day in Washington.

Even though the laws are not being passed federally, there are states that are taking stricter approaches to gun control.

Obama proposes increased pay

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be passed. A USA Today poll showed that 45 percent of Americans were for the gun control proposals, which are down from 90 percent in April.

The President reacted to the school shooting in Newtown, CT by putting together a 23 part proposal package. The proposals created controversy in Congress and across the country. When it was time to vote, the majority in Congress was against the President’s ideas, and the proposals did not pass. Part of the plans included banning certain types of assault rifles and semi automatic weapons, limiting the number of bullets that can be held in magazine, enforcing more extensive background checks and creating better environments for students. “[The laws’] purposes are to protect people, and what has happened is that people aren’t being protected,” sophomore Hasan Tinwala said. “These stricter laws will allow more protection and control over the use of arms.”

Part of the President’s plan was to enact more extensive background checks for when citizens purchase firearms. In 2009, ABC News took the brother of a victim who died in the Virginia Tech shooting, Omar Samaha, to a gun show outside of Richmond, VA. ABC gave Samaha $5,000 and one hour to buy as many guns as possible. At the end of the hour, Samaha was able to buy three rifles, four shotguns and one handgun. None of the vendors asked him for a background check.

“It will be able to help them support themselves a lot more than just on $7 an hour, especially for people that are the main providers for a family,” Koebrick said.

With the increasing costs in the economy, Cooke said one has to have a decent income to keep up with the cost of living.

The cost of tuition to attend college is also increasing. Since Texas deregulated universities from charging what they chose to in 2003, tuition has increased 55 percent. Cooke said that for a single parent with a low income, it will be difficult for them to send their child to a four year college.

Koebrick said she sees the possible wage increase as beneficial to kids trying to get a higher education without as much debt.

“It would definitely help younger generations because we’re all trying to save up for college,” Koebrick said.

Along with college, families can be affected numerous other ways by the continual increase of the cost of living.

Koebrick’s income from her job at Justice goes towards expenses such as gas, car payments and insurance. It also goes towards helping and supporting her family. She is 18 and can legally be independent, but she stays with her parents and helps them pay for rent. She said that the chance under the proposed act to be able to make more income would be a huge benefit to her and her family’s lives.

Koebrick and Cooke said that they think it would be better to raise the minimum wage, despite the possible consequences that accompany the benefits of raising the wage.

“The employers definitely want to keep the wages lower and benefits lower, but if you’re on the other side of the coin, you definitely want a decent wage where you can take care of your family,” Cooke said. “You can look at it both ends because everybody wants to have enough money to have a sense of economic security.” design jordan richards and sydney sund

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NEWS

Breaking ground

photo jordan richards

Freshman center underway for 2014 story austin rickerson and maddy ermenio After years of planning, the Marcus Freshman Center is becoming a reality. Ground for the new building was broken on April 23, and the center is scheduled to be ready for the 2014-2015 school year. The ninth grade campus will be in the current location of the softball field and part of the athletic parking lot.

Once constructed, the center will be connected to the main campus through a hallway in between the Marauder gym and the red gyms. Freshman students will still have access to the main building and will also be able to attend campus events like pep rallies.

“Anything new always provides a lot more energy,” Principal Gary Shafferman said. “[The freshman center] just provides flexibility. It’s going to allow the teachers to be innovative.”

The freshman center is not expected to offer any new courses. However, it will provide a new approach to teaching.

The center will include many features, like movable walls between classes for collaboration and iPad docking stations in the hallways for studying.

“You’re not going to have the normal rows and so forth because of the configuration of the furniture,” Shafferman said.

Since roughly 900 students will be moved to a separate building, all areas of the school should be less crowded. This includes the cafeteria, given that the freshman center will have its own eating area. Algebra teacher John Kostibas said that he looks forward to the advantages the center will bring.

“I think it will affect [the school] positively because we are crowded,” Kostibas said. “I think it’s going to help the existing campus by taking off pressure. Sometimes we feel like we’re bursting at the seams.”

LISD West Zone Communications Coordinator Elizabeth Haas said she is confident that the freshman center will be a great facility for students, given the positive results of the other freshmen campuses in LISD like at Harmon and Lewisville.

“Research shows that having a center like this helps students transition from middle school to high school,” Haas said. “It makes it go more smoothly, and we’ve seen that with our other campuses in the district.” design jordan richards

Although the center will provide many new learning opportunities, it has also caused some confusion because of construction and the relocation of some sports teams.

Construction on the new IAC (Indoor Athletic Complex) is also underway on the south side of the football field. The old facility had to be moved from the north to the south side of the football field in order to accommodate for the freshman center.

The tennis team has also been relocated to new tennis courts that are located off campus.

“We might have to use shuttle buses to get down to the sports center, and it’ll take a lot of practice time away from us,” freshman tennis player Rachel Wright said.

Kostibas also sees potential problems with the new center. He said that parking could be an issue, and he worries that the freshmen won’t get to interact with upperclassmen.

Regardless, Kostibas said that the positives of the center outweigh all other factors.

“They will get more attention,” Kostibas said. “At this school, kids feel like they are going from middle school to college because we are so big. When they have their own little school, they’re going to feel a little more protected. It won’t be as harsh of a transition into Marcus.”

Sophomore Reilly Bitzer said he also looks forward to the additions to the school and thinks they will have a positive impact on the future of the school and incoming students.

“I think that it will be beneficial to the incoming freshman because they will have a place of their own,” Bitzer said.

“I’m glad that my sixth grade brother will be able to attend it because it’s going to ease his transition into high school.”

Not everyone thinks that the center is a good idea, however.

Freshman Tasha Cable said she was really looking forward to going to high school after eighth grade and wouldn’t have wanted to go to just another area for freshmen.

“I don’t think it is going to be beneficial for them because I think that the upperclassmen help them,” Cable said. “I feel like [the center] is just another middle school year.”

Kostibas said he is hopeful for the future of the freshman center.

“I actually look forward to it,” Kostibas said. “It will benefit the kids. I think they will feel much better when they have a smaller campus that is their own.”

New Additions In addition to the freshman center, other changes are also being made to the main campus before next school year. In order to increase safety, the main entrance is being revamped. Students and visitors will no longer be able to just walk in the front door after the tardy bell rings. A separate entrance will be constructed connecting directly to the main office, and the small office in the main entrance will be removed. A waiting area will be built where visitors can wait to be escorted to where they need to go.

Also, a new indoor arena with a large gymnasium will go next to the freshman center, where the tennis courts are currently located. This building will be similar to the arena constructed last year at Lewisville High School and will assume the role of the “main” gym, although the other three gyms will remain where they are.

The choral department is also receiving an overhaul.

The MOB room in S hall will be transformed into another area for choir. The dark room will not be affected at this time, but it might be moved to the Art hallway in the future.

Lastly, the portables are being emptied and will be moved off campus. This is being done in anticipation of an extension to the theater area and auditorium. A “black box,” or small theater, will go where portables 1-4 currently are (beside the auditorium and band parking lot) and will be connected to the auditorium hallway. A new scene room and restrooms will also be added in that area of the school. may 10, 2013 the marquee

NEWS

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Teacher loses cousin in West explosion story maddy ermenio and alyssa schmidt

said. “Once I knew if my immediate family was okay, it was just a matter of waiting to On April 18, a fertilizer plant caught on hear the news.” fire and exploded in the small town of West, Joey had served as the City Secretary in Texas, killing 14 people, one of whom is West since 2009 and was the treasurer of the 29-year-old Joey Pustejovsky, the cousin of West Fire Department. He leaves behind a Science teacher Denise Pustejovsky. blended family, including his wife, son, and Denise was born into a large family and three step-children. was raised in Abbott, about 10 minutes “He really from West. Family made it a strong gatherings at her family,” Denise grandparents’ home Church was so full, people were said. “They still and camping trips felt like he was standing in the back...the line were commonplace. their dad.”

Her mother is from to give condolences to my aunt Denise’s aunt Abbott and her father and uncle had and uncle was very long. is from West, so the a home located tragedy hits close in Zone 3, the to home for her. Of closest zone to Denise Pustejovsky, Science her 50 first cousins, the explosion. over a third of them Only two of the commute to West daily. Joey was a volunteer 160 homes in Zone 3 will be able to stay, the firefighter, one of the men who responded to rest of which will be demolished. Denise’s aunt the scene after the explosion. and uncle are among the homeowners who “That night when there were so many will have their house torn down. Even areas that they were predicting dead, I knew that not classified as a “zone” have experienced I probably knew someone who died,” Denise damage, like Denise’s cousin who has broken said. rafters in the roof. In the midst of seemingly Denise first found out about the explosion endless damage in her aunt and uncle’s house, on Facebook, where an old friend had posted one memory remained that was passed down about it. Right away, she began calling after Denise’s grandmother passed away last immediate family members to check on them. year.

“I knew it would affect my family,” Denise “My grandmother’s table got saved

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because of the table cloth,” Denise said. “It didn’t have all that embedded glass because it had something covering it.”

Denise was able to visit the town and her family members when she went to West for Joey’s funeral. She witnessed the homes of her family, destroyed and covered in a blanket of glass.

“It was just a mess,” Denise said. “My mom drove through Zone 3, and she only drove through one street because she didn’t even want to see the others.”

Denise said that people from across the nation attended the funeral, some of them being complete strangers.

“Church was so full, people were standing in the back,” Denise said. “The line to give condolences to my aunt and uncle was very long.”

Denise met one of the strangers that attended, a Connecticut fireman who had come to pay his respects to a fellow firefighter.

Strangers also gathered in the town, some to volunteer, some to give donations and some just to offer condolences. Connally ISD gave up one of their campuses that did not yet have students attending so that the students of West could finish off the school year.

“They repainted it red and black to make it look like West High School colors,” Denise said.

The district has made the school personalized for the students of West, making

memories for the seniors that will graduate this year. Another memory that Denise will always have is the valiant character of her cousin Joey.

“He was a hero,” Denise said. “The memory that will always stand out in my mind is him giving his life for the town.”

photo submitted Joey Pustejovsky was one of the first fire firefighters to respond to the explosion. The funeral was held for Pustejovsky in West on April 26.

Campus collects donations In response to the West explosion, supplies like water, clothing, and basic necessities were collected on April 19 on campus. With only one day’s notice, the student body was able to collect almost $500 in donations during lunch. The following Sunday, Assistant Principal Jason Mullin and his family traveled to West to deliver supplies and monetary donations to people in need. Mullin said that his 16-foot flatbed trailer was completely stuffed with donations.

“The response from the students and the faculty was great,” Mullin said. “It was instant, it was sincere and it showed a lot to me about our students and our staff.”

The district launched the “Give ‘Em Five” program to encourage every student in LISD to give $5 to support the people of West. Through the program, hundreds of thousands of dollars were raised within weeks. In addition, Beth Baltmanis has collected monetary donations that will be given directly to Chemistry teacher Denise Pustejovsky’s family for funeral costs for her cousin Joey, a volunteer firefighter killed in the explosion. The money will also be used to set up a fund for Joey’s four children.

“It’s a way to immediately contribute and know that your funds are going directly to a family in need,” Baltmanis said. “I just collected the money because somebody needed to stand up.”

Between the donations that Mullin and Baltmanis collected, the student body and faculty together raised a total of $1,900. Not only has the school rallied around supporting those affected by West, but so have the state, nation and world.

West is a town of Czech heritage, known for its “Czech Stop” kolaches and sweets. Travelers often stop at this bakery on the way south to Austin or north to Dallas. West received a donation of $200,000 from Czechoslovakia and continues to receive international contributions. Denise said that she is very thankful for all the support from donors at home and worldwide.

“It’s really nice and heartfelt,” Denise said. “You can tell. If you really saw the devastation, you would see how it really changed our lives. Donating what you can is helpful because they’re going to need it.” the marquee may 10, 2013

Nursing Home

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High School

design jordan richards

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FEATURE

Reversed roles

Chemistry teacher Gene Costa teaches his class about logarithms and molarity.

photo ben horton

Former student becomes chemistry teacher after 2008 graduation story madi schwem By the end of their senior year, most students are dreaming of leaving school and never looking back once they’ve gone.

The last intention they have is to return to school so soon, and many go on to move far away and pursue careers out of state.

However, this was not the case with one student. This school year, Gene Costa returned to the same school from which he graduated. Only this time, he’s walking the halls as a Chemistry teacher instead of a student.

“I was a little anxious,” Costa said. “I was in the same school that I grew up in and having a position of authority now. It’s a lot to handle.”

Throughout his high school years, Costa had a variety or interests, including English and history. He even took an editor position on the literary magazine staff to pursue his interest for graphic design. Football and track were also pastimes. In college, he added Chinese to his studies.

At 18, Costa even ran for mayor because of his interest in local politics and for the experience. Oddly enough, another candidate shared his last name.

“I thought it would be humorous to have two people with the same last name run together,” he said. “I also just wanted to see how people might interact with someone my age in this campaign. It was fun to see teenagers go out and vote for me when I started running.”

Costa did lose the race, but he says it doesn’t really bother him that much.

“I came in third, and that was really disappointing,” Costa said. “But I moved on. I enjoyed getting to see the local political system because not a lot of people pay attention to it.” design amanda collen

After entering the University of North Texas, Costa discovered a new passion - science. He explored astronomy, but chemistry is where his interest for science really grew.

“What I love about chemistry is that it challenges students...” Costa said. “If you don’t really try to visualize chemistry, you’ll have a very rough time understanding it.”

Costa’s love for this area of science encouraged him to share his knowledge of chemistry with students.

Now as a teacher, Costa uses a variety of teaching techniques to help students learn. He said it’s important to capture students’ attention by giving them interesting, handson activities.

Costa has led his students through all ranges of activities, from simply giving them online polls to take or having them make pancakes in class. Costa has also had his students participate in interesting projects such as looking over DUI/ DWI solutions to find out if someone was over the legal drinking limit or not.

“He teaches us really interesting things, like medicine side effects and results of using drugs,” sophomore Angela Hoffman said.

Some of his labs have also consisted of students viewing different lights from different spectrums while blasting techno music.

“They enjoyed the combination of the lights and the music,” Costa said. “They also enjoyed a flame test lab where we turned out lights and put salt into flames to see different colors emerge. It sort of has a Harry Potter effect to it.”

Costa also has an interesting way of going about his teaching methods, such as giving students an assignment and letting them figure out the purpose for themselves.

“Right now we have to raise a plant,” Hoffman said. “He

never tells us immediately why we’re doing something like that. He says we’ll figure it out later.”

The relationship he has with students is also important to Costa, who is not far from the age of the students he teaches.

“He’s relatable because he’s young,” Hoffman said.

Teaching high school is enjoyable to Costa because students are at the place in their lives when they’re becoming adults and having to make decisions on their own. Trying to joke with his students and getting to know them on a personal basis is what he says makes him understand and have empathy for his students.

At least once a week, Costa likes to discuss general matters with his students, such as social issues and cultural norms.

“It’s really nice to get students to tell me about their issues like their personal confrontations and struggles,” Costa said.

“It really brings more of a discussion and makes it personal.”

Teaching at the same school he attended as a teenager has made being a teacher more enjoyable.

“It’s fun to see new faces and to see old faces,” he said.

The way students react to Costa’s lessons is also very important to him.

“Honestly, I just listen with time and hear my kids start to discuss things that they’ve learned in previous chapters,” Costa said. “They just use [the material] and bring it up casually so that I know that it’s actually ingrained in their mind, which I get some satisfaction from.”

Now he’s transitioned from feeling anxious about working alongside the teachers he was taught by to comfortable with his new peers. Returning to the school has been positive for him in that way so far.

“Really, [the environment’s] just very familiar to me,” Costa said. “I enjoy the atmosphere.” may 10, 2013 the marquee

FEATURE

A different kind of family

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Student body, faculty support security guard in time of need story austin rickerson It wasn’t just a typical dinner at the Whataburger in Decatur for security guard Walter Coates and his wife, Doris. The burger and fries may have tasted the same.

The Styrofoam cup and orange accented interior of the restaurant hadn’t changed. The September weather was fairly standard. But a heavy topic lingered.

Doris’ recent diagnosis was weighing heavily on both of their minds. One word. Six letters. Cancer. Yet the sound brought utter devastation. It was a monster they had never faced before and one they hadn’t planned on facing either. But the fact of the matter remained. Doris had cancer in her liver, colon and left lung, and it wasn’t going away.

All of a sudden, a Hispanic man turned to ask the Coates what was wrong. He had overheard their conversation.

“I heard you are sick,” the man said. “What do you have?”

The couple explained Doris’ illness to him and his family. Before they knew it, a prayer group surrounded them in the middle of the restaurant. These complete strangers began praying in Spanish, a language neither Walter nor Doris could comprehend.

They sat in their chairs, the aroma of burgers and fries surrounding them, completely taken back. It was an odd situation for the Coates. They didn’t know these people or what they were saying. But they knew that someone wanted to help.

*** Doris was diagnosed in September, 2012. The couple of 40 years had recently moved to Denton from Vernon, a small town outside of Wichita Falls. Walter had taken a

security job at the school to be closer to their a family.” grandchildren. He had only been at Marcus A few days later, Walter walked into the for a couple of weeks when they found out. front office and was presented with the money It wasn’t just cancer. It was stage four to go towards his wife’s cancer treatment. As cancer, the most advanced state of the illness. he took the box filled with cash, filled with Doris immediately started radiation and hope, tears began to flow from his eyes. He chemotherapy. However, chemotherapy was was so grateful. Yet he couldn’t find any expensive, especially now that Doris couldn’t words to say. Nothing could express the relief work. The heartbreaking medical problem and gratitude he felt. soon became a financial dilemma as well.

“We were pretty amazed,” Doris said.

“When you find out you have terminal “And amazed just expresses it mildly.” cancer, there’s a When Walter whole lot of things came home that you have to worry day, he showed the about,” Doris said. money to Doris.

“One of them is: Although she was how can we afford still sick in bed, her treatment?

We eyes lit up. didn’t even have “Do you know insurance for me.” how far this will go Just paying for us?” she asked for groceries and Walter. electricity became The money that a concern. When the faculty raised, Assistant Principal donations photo submitted plus Erum Shahzad by students and Security guard Walter Coates and his wife, Doris, pose with overheard Walter on their daughters Michelle, Amber and Ivy last Christmas. parents, went the phone one day at toward providing work, distressed about his wife’s illness and basic needs that had become unaffordable their financial situation, she decided to do and obtaining insurance for Doris. Although something about it. Shahzad immediately sent she began undergoing treatment and became out a mass email to the faculty explaining the stronger, it wasn’t the end of her battle situation of one of their coworkers. Within 24 with cancer. The illness was still ultimately hours, over $1,300 had been raised. Shahzad terminal. As if that wasn’t bad enough, said that through the years as a student and the side effects of the treatment kept her as an assisstant principal, she has seen how bedridden for months. Sometimes she felt so giving the school is. weak that she wouldn’t be able to get out of “It’s not surprising though because I’ve bed until Walter came home in the evening. seen it,” Shahzad said. “I’ve been in this Recently, she said she has been feeling building for 17 years, and even as a student, better. Although she said she is not through whenever there was someone in need, we with the cancer and it is not through with her, always came through.”

Doris can now do everyday activities. She and Walter’s situation hit home for Shahzad. Walter can even go out to a restaurant or to When her son, sophomore Sami Shahzad, a movie. had open heart surgery years ago, the school “I really do feel like a person again for raised thousands of dollars for him, too. She almost the first time in a year,” Doris said. said that Walter is another member of the Although Doris doesn’t know how much family at the school and that they always time she has left, she is making the most of support each other. it. She even made a trip to Lubbock recently “We always say Marcus family,” Shahzad to visit family. Despite all the trials and said. “Any time we need anything, we say tribulations she has faced over the past Marcus family because we really do become months, Doris said that her faith in God has

kept her going.

“I just fight with myself and ask all the time: why is this happening to me? What have I done?” Doris said. “The time came when I just felt this peace in my heart and felt like everything was going to be okay.”

For someone like Doris, who graduated from a rural high school class of only 12 seniors, all of the hustle and bustle of a town of over 67,000 people like Flower Mound can be a bit much. She said she had always thought that good people were only in small towns. However, her battle with cancer and support she has received from complete strangers has changed her opinion.

“It has definitely turned my thinking around,” Doris said. “It’s not little towns where people are good and where people care.

That can happen in any location.”

She said she has learned that kind people are everywhere.

“I’ve always thought if you didn’t know your neighbor’s dog’s name, that wasn’t friendly people,” Doris said. “That’s not necessarily true. Friendly people are people that have a heart and those who care for others, especially if they are in need.”

In the same way that strangers prayed for them in Whataburger, the school raised money for Doris’ cancer treatment. For just the short amount of time they have spent in the community, they said they have really embraced and been embraced by the students.

“Once you’re at Marcus, you’re family,” Walter said. “Throughout the year I’ve been here in security, I have found out how great Marcus is.”

Whether it’s a friendly wave or just a smile, Walter has made it a point to greet everyone as they come into the parking lot every morning. Despite his wife’s struggle, Walter finds a reason to smile every day.

“I guarantee you some of them maybe have had a rough morning or a rough night,” Walter said. “I’m probably one of the first people they see, and I want to have a positive attitude toward them so maybe they will have a better day.”

If anyone asks Walter how many grandchildren he has, he will respond by saying, “Born into my family: 7, adopted: 3,000 plus.”

Reducing Risks U.S. Predictions expected cases for 2013

photo ben horton Security guard Walter Coates waves to students as they arrive at school in the morning.

the marquee may 10, 2013

Colon cancer

102,480

Lung cancer

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Exercising daily for 30 minutes, eating fruits and vegetables and limiting sugar intake can reduce risks for several major cancers

http://www.cancer.org

design amanda collen and jordan richards

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FEATURE photo michele papa

Anything but incapable

Senior triumphs over disease that affects hair, nails, skin, teeth, eyes story

alex bennett

Her vision has gotten to the point where most text is unreadable unless held about an inch from her eye, even with Incontinentia Pigmenti. Difficult to pronounce, but far the glasses she wears. But even that couldn’t put a stop to her more difficult for someone to live with. The disorder is an academic abilities. incredibly rare genetic disease caused by an X-chromosome With her many goals and aspirations, Kellermeyer prefers mutation. It kills male infants usually within the seventh to do things herself whenever possible, as her brother Kris has month of pregnancy, or in rare cases when they have been noticed. born alive, they are born without bones and die quickly after.

“She’s really independent,” Kris said. “If I try to help her On the other hand, mothers that have the disease have a with laundry or read something to her, she’ll sometimes give 50/50 chance of passing it on. me this glare. She doesn’t accept help unless she absolutely Senior Kaitlyn Kellermeyer inherited the disease from her needs it.” mom, who in turn inherited it from her mom. Incontinentia Her perseverance was tested in the form of the PSAT. Pigmenti is a nervous system disorder with the potential to She had to do much better than her previous scores to have possibly lead to paralysis, mental a chance at becoming a National handicaps or Down’s syndrome.

Merit Finalist. She still remembers Victims can also suffer from hair when she took that test as if it were loss, frail nails, spotted skin, yesterday. yellowed teeth and blindness.

“I was really excited about it, and I’m not a disabled person first “So basically these people can the PSAT Team got us all hyped up,” and foremost. I’m a person with hear and smell and that’s about it,” Kellermeyer said. “We were a team, Kellermeyer said. and they made us shirts. We all a disability.

Kellermeyer wears a thick pair signed them, and it was awesome.” of glasses, and her left eye appears She did most of the preparation Kaitlyn Kellermeyer, 12 clouded and foggy. She can’t see through the PSAT Team class, anything out of it and has limited beginning with the practice packet vision in her right eye, with a she had to take home and complete reduced field of view and extreme nearsightedness. She sees over the summer, which she worked on for weeks. When objects from 20 feet as others would see things from 100 feet junior year came around, most of her preparation was in due to several medical complications caused by the disease. PSAT Team, with even more practice packets. Kellermeyer When she was about 18 months old, a blood vessel in her left remembered always being behind her classmates in terms of eye popped, detaching the retina from the rest of her eye and where she was in her work. She often had to work to catch up twirling up the retina. while her friends would spend most of their time talking.

“It apparently looks like a tornado because it’s got so many Kellermeyer was told by a friend in the class that the other folds in it,” Kellermeyer said. kids stared at her and her large print papers. When she took The same thing happened in the other eye, but with laser practice tests on the weekends, she was seated away from the surgery, Dr. David W. Johnson, a retinal surgeon in Colorado, other kids because her tests were enlarged. She often struggled pinned the retina down. This repeated tacking down of the eye to keep up with her classmates. has occurred more than 10 times in Kellermeyer’s life in order She had to be moved to a different room as a result to prevent complete blindness. However, the vision in her of her impaired vision, which qualified her for certain good eye has been worsening over time. Neither Kellermeyer accommodations. Due to her blindness, she can take tests nor her doctors are entirely sure why her vision has degraded. with time-and-a-half accommodations, getting an hour and a One effect of her poor vision is that she frequently runs half where every other student would get an hour. Even with into unseen obstacles. Each time one appears, it comes to such assistance, she didn’t find the test easy.

Kellermeyer as a complete surprise.

“It was long and strenuous and tiring, and I came out of it “It’s like a magical, mystical, space-time continuum block really not very confident,” Kellermeyer said. just appears, and I trip over it,” Kellermeyer said.

Despite her doubts, she had done far better than her design courtney clubb

“ “

previous score of 182, possibly due to the fact that she took the test without the time-and-a-half accommodations.

Kellermeyer felt that all her preparations paid off.

“It was definitely really rewarding to see that number on my test, and know that I had it in me to do that,” Kellermeyer said. “That number is proof not only to me, but to everyone else who meets me that I’m not to be taken lightly. I’m not a disabled person first and foremost. I’m a person with a disability.”

Thanks mostly to a PSAT score of 225 out of a possible 240 and additional essays, Kellermeyer became a National Merit Finalist, qualifying her for several scholarships. The potential ranges from a flat amount of financial assistance over the years of attendance to a full-ride and even an additional stipend, all depending on how much each university is willing to spend.

Some schools provide full-ride scholarships to finalists, like University of Texas at Dallas and Texas A&M. One university in particular had caught her interest in one of the smallest states possible. She wants to go to Brown University in Rhode Island.

“I love the rural setting but in the urban environment,” Kellermeyer said. “Being smack dab in the middle of a big city like Providence… it’s full of public transportation, things to do, things to see, and it’s all so close I could walk.”

In addition to the scenery and environment, she’s interested in curriculum. Brown students are given significant flexibility in the courses they are allowed to take. The university is like a create-your-own-education school in which no courses are required. Students get to spend time working on their major and anything else they want to do.

“It’s really a place to find your niche, your real passion in life, and that’s something I’m interested in,” Kellermeyer said.

Among other things, she’s interested in foreign language interpretations and economics or international studies, as well as outside work in music such as vocals and piano. She even wants to be a polyglot, or a person who fluently speaks four or more languages.

Kellermeyer believes in doing her very best despite what obstacles are put in front of her. One reason for her independence and perseverance is her desire to prove herself to others.

“Even with a disability, I’m very abled,” Kellermeyer said.

“I’m not in a wheel chair, I’m not mentally handicapped and I’m not discouraged. I might be disabled, but I’m not giving up. I’m going to live my life to the fullest, and I’m not going to let anything get in the way of that.” may 10, 2013 the marquee

FEATURE

60seconds Luke Page, 10 compiled austin rickerson photo amanda collen

What TV show character would you be and why?

“Hannah Montana because she has the best of both worlds.”

Who do you envy most and why?

“Gandalf the Grey. I have no idea how someone is able to grow that much facial hair.”

If you could be any woman in history, who would it be?

“Rosa Parks because she didn’t give up her seat on the bus.”

What ismy theparents oddestwere thing you have ever “That murderers and that eaten? they kidnapped me.”

“I was dared to eat a cricket at a cross country meet. But I think grasshoppers are a little crunchier.”

What would be your first act as president?

“I would make everyone wear rollerblades instead of walk. I just care so much for the wellbeing of America.”

If you could only do one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

“The one thing I would do for the rest of my life would be my favorite hobby, catching rays by the pool.” the marquee may 10, 2013

9

Not missing a beat

Beat boxing club helps students improve skills story anna middleton

Junior Kevin Lee stood in front of the new members with a microphone in hand. He turned the amp on and looked around at all the eager eyes. More students were present than he had expected. After a moment, he put his lips to the microphone and started to let the beats flow through him.

The group stared at Lee out of amazement.

However, Lee felt he was alone. He let the music The Beat Boxing club gathers for a club meeting. Junior Kevin Lee started the club with the help of science move freely from his teacher Scott Hinsley, who is the club sponsor. lips. This is my music, he thought. This is the skill I sponsor the club. He performed some types of beat boxing and can show the world. As his beat boxing came to a close, the Hinsley was automatically interested. Hinsley said that he had other students applauded and cheered. never truly known what beat boxing is but felt that he should Lee introduced the Beat Boxing club this year in March support interested students by sponsoring the club. with the help of Science teacher Scott Hinsley. With the club’s “When I was in high school, beat boxing probably existed, membership swelling at a rapid rate, Lee said he is thrilled at but it was not really a mainstream thing, so this is new to me,” the success of his new club.

Hinsley said. “However, the kids are really enthusiastic and “I want to expand the art of beat boxing in the school and excited about it. They enjoy doing it, and Kevin is really good to share its skills to other people that are interested,” Lee said. at teaching new members.”

Lee began his hobby in third grade, after he became Freshman member Daniel Lim learned how to beat box entranced by a Twix commercial. Lee said that there was a from Lee at a church mission trip two years ago. He says that beat boxer in the commercial by the name of Rozelle that this hobby is something he does when he is emotional because made incredible sounds with only his mouth. it clears his mind. Lee also said that beat boxing is calming “The commercial stated that all the cool sounds were and inspirational because it is like a very unique instrument coming from him,” Lee said. “I heard what he had to offer to him. and was like ‘Wow, is that real?’”

“Everyone’s voice is built differently, so I think it’s the In October, Lee wanted to show others the creativity of most personalized instrument,” Lee said. beat boxing. As a result, he went to Hinsley asking him to So far, the club is currently teaching new members the basics of beat boxing. This includes learning three types of sounds. The most typical of these three is the base kick, which is a normal beat. The next is the high hat, which is like making the ‘T’ sound. The final of the three is the snare, where beat boxers click their tongue into the microphone.

“There are so many types of beats that you couldn’t even count them all,” Lim said.

Some other types of beats are scratches and rolls. A scratch is where a musician makes a noise similar to when a DJ scratches a CD. A lip roll is when the beat boxer rolls his or her tongue to push air out of the mouth.

“You use your lips, tongue and even your teeth,” Lee said.

“You can use everything in your mouth to produce different sounds.”

The club meets on the second and fourth Tuesday afternoons of every month in A208 to give every member, or anyone who is interested, a chance to try beat boxing. Along with having students perform, this club also shows videos of Lee’s favorite beat boxers and tutorials on beat boxing.

However, Lee says the best way to learn is to practice. photos michele papa “With whatever instrument you want to learn, for example a violin or piano, you really have to practice on your own,” Lee Junior Briana Buderus watches senior Kevin Kim practice beat boxing. The club meets on Tuesday afternoons. said. “You have to enjoy what you do to actually learn it.” design courtney clubb

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IN-DEPTH

11

Or deadly addiction?

With tanning a continuing trend, The Marquee takes a look at skin cancer and its effects.

the marquee

may 10, 2013

design/ photo jordan richards

12

IN-DEPTH

Effects of UV rays prompt changes

State considers new laws restricting teenage tanning story

Sun safety tips compiled ryan mcdearmont

Stay out of the sun during peak hours, from about 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Make sure to wear at least SPF 30 sunscreen when outside.

Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes, face and scalp.

Do not lie in the sun with the intention of getting a tan. There is no such thing as a safe tan.

Wear clothing that will cover your body. design tori allmendinger

SPF

50

marisa charpentier

She spent the first 11 years of her life south of the equator in India before sunscreen was available. Even when she moved Teenagers are no strangers to tanning beds. However, to Texas, the sun exposure continued. one lawmaker just might change that. Earlier this year, “The rest of my youth was spent here in Texas, so that Texas Representative John Zerwas proposed a bill restricting meant going to the pool every summer, hanging out and tanning. If passed, the bill would prevent minors under the swimming, going to summer camp and hanging out at the lake age of 18 in Texas from using a tanning bed even if they have and spending a lot of time in the sun,” Toews said. “We never parent consent. According to senior Kendall Anderson, most used sunscreen.” students tan through this method.

When she got into her 40s, Toews began to have issues “They talk about it,” Anderson said. “It’s obvious. They post with her skin. While at the doctor one day, she found that she pictures of it on Twitter or Instagram.” had precancerous cells on her face. Although not cancer itself, The state’s tanning laws currently prohibit minors under a precancerous cell has the potential to turn into cancer if not the age of 16 and a half from tanning in tanning beds at all, treated. The doctor prescribed a chemotherapy cream to kill and those under the age of 18 must have parental consent. off the dangerous cells. Some people react badly to the cream.

“I don’t think that’s going to stop it,” Anderson said. “If “The doctors said your face will look like a sunburned they want to be tan, they’ll find some way to do it.” pizza,” Toews said. “It’s really awful, really gross. Everything For anywhere from 15 to 30 hours a week, tanning beds kind of puffs up and turns red. I was really fortunate that it surround junior Brittne Largent. An employee at Planet didn’t happen to me. Just little spots turned really red.”

Tan in Flower Mound, Largent Ultraviolet radiation has different preps customers for their tanning wavelengths such as UVA and UVB sessions and sells skincare rays. Excessive exposure to these products. She said that some rays, which are found in both sunlight If we didn’t have that 24 hour precautions taken before tanning and tanning beds, damages skin by law, people would be tanning include the use of safety goggles altering the DNA in skin cells, leading and lotion. to genetic mutations and possibly every single day, eight times a “We kind of push towards the skin cancer. UV rays are a proven day. lotion,” Largent said. “It has more carcinogen, or a substance capable of health and protection for your causing cancer. The American Cancer Brittne Largent, 11 body to help prevent skin cancer, Society projects that 9,480 people in and really that’s all we have.” the U.S. will die of melanoma, one of In addition to age restrictions, the deadliest types of skin cancer, by another law prohibits people from tanning in an indoor the end of 2013. salon more than once within 24 hours. Largent said that she “My mom and my best friend’s mom have had a lot of supports the current laws that are in place. trouble with skin cancer,” Anderson said. “It’s definitely scary.

“If we didn’t have that 24 hour law, people would be Her mom would never let her tan in a tanning bed because tanning every single day, eight times a day,” Largent said. she’s lived out the effects of it.”

According to Largent, the salon recommends that new These rays can also lead to the early aging of skin. Tanning members tan at the salon three to five times a week to build can cause fine lines and wrinkles to appear on the skin a long-lasting color. The maximum time one can remain in a prematurely. Wittkower said that even though students might tanning bed at this salon is 12 minutes. Although tanning is be aware of these effects, they do not always take them into typically associated with females, Largent said she sees both consideration. men and women of all ages.

“They just don’t find them relevant because it’s so far away “My first day I started working, I actually saw more guys to them,” Wittkower said. “But time will eventually catch up to than girls,” Largent said. you, and you’ll have to worry about it then.”

Aside from tanning beds, sunlight also emits UV rays Even though tanning and overexposure to UV rays can that can damage the skin. As a tennis player, senior David have damaging effects on the skin, receiving Vitamin D is still Wittkower spends hours outside in the sun. After years of important for one’s health. Spending five to 30 minutes in the tournaments and practices, signs of skin damage are beginning sun twice a week can help maintain healthy levels of Vitamin to show. He says the skin on his neck is permanently red, and D. Largent said she has seen people at the tanning salon trying he’s concerned it could become a threat to his health. to make up for their lack of Vitamin D. “I’ve known players from a while back who actually got skin “We do have people that come in and say, ‘My doctor told cancer on their nose, face, neck or back because that’s where me to come in and start tanning for a couple weeks due to you get the most sun exposure,” Wittkower said. “Hopefully I medical conditions,’” Largent said. won’t have to deal with that, but it’s a worry in the back of my Largent also said that tanning in a tanning bed could be mind.” more practical than tanning outside due to the time restriction.

While sunscreen can help prevent the harmful effects of the “I feel like in a tanning bed, you are less likely to get skin skin’s rays, the lotion can rub off over time. Wittkower said it is cancer because you are in there only for 12 minutes,” Largent important to reapply sunscreen and take other precautionary said. measures as well.

According to Anderson, however, students shouldn’t even “If you’re at an event, and you’re not playing and you’re worry about setting aside time to tan. wearing short sleeves, just put on a jacket to cover up as much “Focus on things that are actually going to make you a skin as possible to prevent sunburns,” Wittkower said. better person instead of focusing so much on what you look Photography teacher Kathy Toews grew up around the sun. like,” Anderson said.

“ “

the marquee may 10, 2013

IN-DEPTH

Coping with melanoma

13

Volleyball coach endures effects of skin cancer due to sun exposure in youth story alyssa schmidt Coach Brenda Jacobs sits on the crinkly white paper and processes what the doctor has just told her. The mole she had found was in fact melanoma. She had been somewhat prepared to hear this news ever since she found the second basal cell, a skin growth that is in the stage just before cancer.

But the shock is still there. The doctor explains to her that the damage to her skin was done long ago, most likely when she was a teenager.

“I wasn’t afraid and I didn’t think that I was going to die, but it stopped me in my tracks,” Jacobs said. “But there was so much regret because it was so avoidable. There’s a chance that as a tennis player that could’ve caused it, but I don’t believe that. I really think it was all the tanning that I did.”

*** Summer had finally come in Chicago. The cold winter and heavy snow had passed and the air had warmed to perfection.

The sun radiated in the sky, and 13-year-old Jacobs sat soaking it up on a lawn chair by the pool. A Cubs game played on the radio in the background, and two of her best friends sat on either side of her.

School had ended and the mid-June sun absorbed into their skin. They would do anything to achieve that perfect bronze. Slather butter and oil on their skin. Lie on top of the roof to be closer to the sun. Stay in the sun for hours until their skin had cooked into a bright red burn. The burns were okay, though because a little Aspirin and a cold compress would dull the pain. They could take the pain because that bright red burn would eventually be a golden kiss.

Jacobs said that girls anticipated these days all year. From Memorial Day to Labor Day they were out in the sun.

“Growing up in the 70s, to be tan was the end all be all,” Jacobs said. “It was a social thing for us, and we would all tan together. And it was addicting for me to be out in the sun. It

Effects of UV rays

just felt good.”

She said she didn’t limit her exposure in those years.

“But anything is fine in moderation, the sun is good for us.

Laying out for an hour is okay, it’s when you’re laying out for six or eight hours a day that’s where it’s a problem.”

What Jacobs did not realize is that tan came at a price.

With no knowledge of skin cancer and very little use of sun screen, Jacobs was only concerned about getting a sun burn.

And even a sun burn would fade.

“We had no idea about any kind of consequences,” Jacobs said. “I relate it to how so many people smoked back then, and then suddenly so many people started dying from lung cancer.

It’s the same thing with the sun.”

School nurse Janet Schliesing believes that tanning for the color itself is not a good idea. She said that if students are looking for that bronze color, they should consider spray tanning.

“Tanning is not a necessary bodily function,” Schliesing said. “You do need the sun for vitamin D, but changing your melanin is just asking for skin cancer.”

After being diagnosed, Jacobs became vigilant. She began always checking for any spot that looked suspicious and going to the doctor every six months.

“The doctor checks everything and so do I,” Jacobs said. “If I see anything, I’m at the doctor the next day. If you check it early enough, the less likely it is that it will spread. I have a lot of scars but so what? It’s better than the alternative.”

Jacobs has prevented the spreading of cancer to her other organs, and she has not had to do any chemotherapy or radiation. At one point, however, she found a small mole on her right shoulder. But unlike the other moles she had spotted, this one was black.

“I immediately went to the doctor and had it looked at,” Jacobs said. “The doctor looked at it and made eye contact with the nurse, and I knew it was bad. He told me this was the

big one, and the next day I was in surgery.”

The small, black mole soon became a long pink scar on Jacob’s left shoulder. The mole required two surgeries in order to ensure that the cancer on the surface of her skin and underneath was completely removed.

There is some pain, but Jacobs is usually at school the day after surgery. She makes sure to let her students in Teen Leadership, girls’ soccer and girls’ volleyball know what her surgery was for and what caused it. She knows that as a teenager, she wouldn’t have listened to an adult about skin cancer, but she tries her hardest to get through to her students.

“I came back from my last surgery about a year ago, and I showed all of my kids the bandage and told them this is what could happen,” Jacobs said. “There are young women in their 20s that die from melanoma, and it’s sad because it’s so preventable.”

Schliesing said that in addition to cancer risks, sun exposure can also cause second and third degree burns, wrinkles, sun spots and cataracts. She said that even though there is more knowledge about the dangers of tanning today, she has no idea why people still excessively tan.

“It’s like asking why a person smokes when they know it’s not good for their body,” Schliesing said.

Jacobs said tanning has changed since she was a teenager.

Instead of just laying out for fun, teenagers start tanning to look good for prom. Jacobs said she still isn’t sure what makes tanning so appealing.

“Kids that are really white get made fun of, and there’s such a stigma attached to not being tan” Jacobs said. “It’s not because they’re any richer or any prettier. I just can’t figure out what is so appealing about being tan.”

But she said there is an addiction in tanning, and she won’t be able to get through to every student.

“Kids are smarter now even though I don’t think they realize how dangerous tanning beds are,” Jacobs said.

Premature Aging:

Unprotected UV exposure can cause the skin to become leathery and wrinkled, with noticeable dark spots.

compiled ryan mcdearmont

Sun Burn: UV rays can

damage surface skin cells, causing unsightly redness, peeling of the skin and burning pain.

Skin Cancer: UV exposure can cause both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, which manifest in the form of unexplained dark spots on the skin, as well as unexplained oozing or bleeding of the skin.

may 10, 2013 the marquee

Eye Damage:

Photokeratitis is essentially a sunburn of the cornea and has symptoms including tearing up, pain, swollen eyelids and hazy vision. Cataracts are a white film that can form over the eye and must be removed surgically.

Sun Tan: Tanning occurs

when the skin produces more melanin in order to protect it against further sun damage. There is no such thing as a healthy tan. www.webmd.com

design tori allmendinger

14

ENTERTAINMENT Some people may have band camp and some people may have football camp. But if this isn’t you, face it: staying in Flower Mound for the majority of summer can be dull. The Marquee has compiled a list of activities around the area for outside when the weather is just right and inside when it is too unbearably hot.

keeping summer fresh story ben horton

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

‘Til Midnight at the Nasher Sculpture Center

Located in Glen Rose, Texas, this animal refuge gives people an opportunity to get up close and personal with animals they would never get to otherwise. For the main tour, visitors drive through the area on a path while giraffes, bison, deer, rhinos, zebras and other exotic animals walk right up to the car.

Giraffes will even sometimes stick their long neck in the car’s window or sunroof. Even though it takes more than an hour and a half to get there, the drive is worth it because people do not get this kind of experience with animals at many other places. Visitors should plan on making it an all-day visit. When making the trek, people can stop for a quick meal. After the park visit, people can head over to the Brazos Drive-In Movie Theater and see a movie.

The Nasher Sculpture Center offers more than just a fair share of amazing art inside and out. On the third Friday of every month from May through August, spectators can enjoy a movie in the park following a performance from a local band, while relaxing in the center’s Nasher Garden. This year’s movies include Life of Pi, Moonrise Kingdom, Cars and The Three Amigos. The museum tries to get bands whose music correlates with the movie that will be showing. In addition, admission is totally free and food can be purchased from the Nasher Café.

www.fossilrim.org 2299 County Road 2008 Glen Rose, TX 76043 (254) 897-2960

www.nashersculpturecenter.org N Harwood St Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 242-5100

Perot Museum

Shakespeare in the Park

There’s a new museum in town that offers exhibits not previously seen in the DFW area like a Dinosaur Hall and an Earthquake Simulator. The Perot Museum focuses on nature and science and is a state of the art building that features an interactive 3D movie theater, too. There is also a Children’s Museum for younger siblings or relatives to enjoy. It has been very popular among school groups during the school year, but once summer arrives, it should be easier to get into. Tickets to the exhibit halls for students are only $12, but visitors should plan on purchasing tickets ahead of time in order to skip the long lines and crowds.

Students read and talk about Shakespeare in English class, but wouldn’t it be more fun to see these plays live under the stars?

Shakespeare in the Park is an event put on by an organization called Shakespeare Dallas which features actors and actresses from around the state.

They put on productions of the playwright’s best works at the Samuell-Grand Amphitheatre. Shakespeare in the Park has been in Dallas since 1971. Tickets are $10 and parking is $5. Families are welcome to bring picnic dinners and lawn chairs. Lawn chairs are also available to rent. This summer’s plays include “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Pericles” and “The Winter’s Tale.”

www.perotmuseum.org 2201 N Field St Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 428-5555

www.shakespearedallas.org 3630 Harry Hines Blvd Dallas, TX 75219 (214) 559-2778

Did you know?

France’s Eiffel Tower can grow by more than 6 inches in the summer due to the expansion of iron on hot days.

graphics amanda collen and jordan richards

On September 13, 1922, the temperature in the shade in the Libyan Desert reached 136 degrees Fahrenheit. This is hot enough to fry an egg on a rock.

A cricket’s chirp frequency fluctuates with temperature. Count the number of times a cricket chirps in 15 seconds, then add 37 to whatever number you reach and you have an approximate outside temperature (in Fahrenheit).

www.parkrideflyusa.com, www.abccubed.com, www.2020site.org

design/graphics amanda collen

may 10, 2013 the marquee

Laughs in class

Teachers share funny stories about past experiences

Mr. Crump the marquee may 10, 2013

Around 1999, a seemingly harmless meal at lunch turned into chaos, and room A206 was branded the “puke room.” Back then one of the meals the cafeteria workers created for lunch was Super Nachos.

After lunch, Social Studies teacher Byron Crump’s fourth period Geography class consisted of more than 30 kids crammed into A206. One day, a young boy said he didn’t feel well after eating the Super Nachos at lunch, but he insisted he could make it through the class.

About a quarter of the way into the class, he changed his mind and attempted to escape out of the

Students often come prepared to class, but what happens when their supplies include a Nerf gun? Last year, Chemistry teacher Jan Hutley found out.

A prank the class pulled on Hutley was inspired from a student a couple of years ago. Hutley had a student that talked a lot in class, and as a joke, a student had bought her a Nerf gun to have in case she ever wanted to retaliate against a student.

“They thought if I just shot at him with a Nerf gun that it would be a very funny way to get his attention to get him to stop talking,” Hutley said.

Once her AP Chemistry class last year heard about this story from years prior, a plan was devised. They decided to try to put her Nerf gun to good use. Without her knowledge, the students planned to stage a Nerf gun war. Weeks in advance, the class hid multiple Nerf guns around the room in places where Hutley would not find them. On the day of the surprise war, the whole class was distracted preparing for the commencement of their plan.

“I was so mad, and I kept saying, ‘This is not funny. We have an AP test that we’re getting ready for, and y’all aren’t paying attention,’” Hutley said.

Then suddenly, a student gave the signal. Classmates ran to retrieve their weapons. Nerf bullets began to fly all over the room. The students pushed desks on their sides to use them to protect themselves from the bullets. The surprise attack was a success. Hutley was shocked at first, but thought it was funny afterwards.

“It actually turned out in the end, in spite of the fact that it was a complete distraction, that it was a really good break for everybody because we can get kind of tense right before the AP test,” Hutley said.

It was also a memorable moment to the students as well as to Hutley.

“Now, every time we get together with those kids, they always talk about it as their favorite thing that happened,” Hutley said.

Mrs. Hutley

Mr. Hinsley

story miranda chiechi photos kady kohankie It’s no secret that announcements aren’t the most engaging part of the day. One day 10 years ago, Physics teacher Christopher Hinsley and Social Studies teacher Byron Crump, devised a plan to shake things up with a mechanical pig and a fart machine. One of the assistant principals at the time, Chris Mattingly, made the announcements and was in for a little surprise.

“Mr. Crump and I decided we were going to try to make him laugh while trying to do the pledge,” Hinsley said.

Hinsley owned a mechanical pig that crawled and oinked, and the two teachers decided to let it loose. Crump opened the door, and Hinlsey set the pig off walking and oinking toward Mattingly.

Mattingly was laughing, but trying to hold it back all at the same time.

“We kind of made fun of him after that,” Hinsley said.

After this prank, Mattingly started closing his door when he made the announcements.

But Hinsley and Crump devised yet another plan to take their prank further.

To get Mattingly out of his office, Hinsley told him there was a fight in the B hall, and Mattingly went to investigate. Phase one was complete.

Crump went into Mattingly’s office and hid a fart machine in his file cabinet.

The next day, Mattingly started the announcements and Crump kept setting the machine off. Mattingly stopped in the middle of the first couple of sentences of the announcements to investigate and find the source of the interruption and discovered the machine.

“We were going to try and make him laugh again, but then he started locking his door so that we couldn’t come in there and do anything,” Hinsley said.

This signaled the end of the scheming pair’s fun, but it didn’t stop them from continuing today to occasionally pull pranks.

narrow line of desks to leave the class and go to the nurse. But he couldn’t get out of class fast enough and headed back towards his desk against the back wall. Suddenly he put his hands over his mouth and threw up with so much force it sprayed on the girls next to him.

This started a downward spiral, as one of the girls also threw up, and the whole class started freaking out, about to throw up at the sight of the vomit.

An assistant principal, nurse and janitor all came in the room to inspect the scene. The janitor came in with pink sawdust that was used to pour on vomit. Crump’s wall was covered in pink powder when suddenly the phenomenon continued as the janitor himself began to feel sick as well.

“All of a sudden, he picks up the garbage can, and he turns around,” Crump said. “He’s looking right at my kids and he throws up.”

This caused another student to throw up, coating the room with even more vomit.

“I’m like, how much worse can this get?” Crump said.

Then the next janitor came in and started using his bare hands to scoop up the puke. This was the last straw for what the students could handle. Crump’s original lesson plans for the day were unsuccessful, and the class resorted to finding refuge outside in the front of the school.

ENTERTAINMENT

15

Sweet Tweets compiled sydney sund

If you want to fly, you have to give up the things that weigh you down.

Libby Dinkmeyer @libbydink Time to play a game called can I get to whataburger before they stop selling breakfast.

Sydney Laudwig @sydneylaudwigi its time for leo dicaprio to quit his acting career and open a coffee shop called Leonardo DiCappuccino.

Bri Clark @brianna_clarkk

The Pack is more than just a team, its a brotherhood, a family.

Brooks Wallace™ @brookswall5 Yeah life throws you curves but you learn to swerve.

Kirsten Wood @kirstenwood18

Best way to break up with someone You: Your ex is attractive Partner: Which one?

You: ME You: BYEEE Victoria Mehlhaff @VMehlhaff Everything that happened in Boston yesterday really made me realize how stupid and irrelevant everything I complain about is.

Megan Wierick @megan_wierick Country songs just seem like really long subtweets.

Cole Blaylock @Cole_Blaylock

design sydney sund

16

ENTERTAINMENT

movies

mood food &

story marisa charpentier

We all know that movies evoke certain emotions. After sitting down with a bowl of popcorn to watch a real tear-jerker or a romantic comedy, viewers usually feel either inspired or upset by the end of the film. But movies and emotions can work the other way around as well. When you feel happy, sometimes you just want to watch something else that’s happy. If you’re sad, maybe you want to watch something that doesn’t have a happily-ever-after ending. Either way, there’s a movie for every emotion. And what’s a movie without the perfect snack? The Marquee has analyzed movies and food to fit a variety of common emotions. Next time you’re feeling happy, sad or something in between, check out this guide to moods, food and movies.

Content Mood: Maybe you’re happy. You might have just witnessed a good deed, like watching someone return a dropped $20 bill to its rightful owner. Or maybe you did the act of kindness yourself.

Either way, you leave the coffee shop, bookstore, restaurant or wherever you are with a subtle smile on your face. You’re pleased with life in general, and for some strange reason, you get the notion that maybe the world isn’t such a bad place after all.

Movie: To fuel this feeling of contentedness, it’s best to choose a “feel good” movie that reflects your likely fleeting attitude. In this scenario, movies like We Bought a Zoo or the classic Singing in the Rain will keep this happy feeling going. The ultimate “feel good” movie, however, is Grease.

There’s nothing like watching teenagers dancing and singing in preparation for the one thing all students hope for – graduation – to keep you in a good mood.

Food: In order to stay happy, choosing something both sweet and healthy is the way to go. Pineapples can give you an energy boost to keep your high spirits up. Also, this fruit doesn’t make you crash after eating it. So slice up some pineapples, or make yourself a tropical pineapple smoothie, and sit back to enjoy the film.

S moot hie

Angry Mood: Maybe you’re infuriated. You woke up late this morning and barely had time to fix your hair. When you got to school, you realized you left your Chemistry project that you spent all night working on at home on your desk. You didn’t have time to pack a lunch, so you’re starving. And worst of all, there’s a test you forgot to study for. When you feel like this, sometimes you just don’t want to be around the human race. Everything and everyone seems to get on your last nerve.

Movie: When nothing seems to go your way and you’re angry, the best thing to do can sometimes be to just sit down and watch a movie. Watching certain films allows you to release your anger without lashing out on others. If you’re angry with friends, you can always go with the classic Mean Girls. If you’re upset to the point Re s ta urant Style where you want to physically harm something, instead of actually doing this, it might be best to watch a movie with some action like The Hulk or The Avengers. But the best movie to watch in this situation would probably be Fight Club. The film’s many fight scenes are sure to help viewers relieve some anger, or at least distract them from their own rage for some time.

Food: When you’re angry, the last thing you want is something sweet. Instead, try something more flavorful. Bring out the tortilla chips and salsa. If you really want to get crazy, add in some queso or guacamole for more variety.

CHIPS

S als a

design amanda collen

graphics sydney sund and hailey painter

Inspired Mood: Maybe you’re motivated. You might have just accomplished something great, and now you feel unstoppable. Or maybe you have a big game tomorrow against a rival team and need to believe you can accomplish anything. Either way, you feel (or need to feel) encouraged and inspired.

Movie: Watching others overcome obstacles and do great things can keep your inspired mood going. One moving film, August Rush, portrays a young boy’s journey to find his parents through music. Also, movies like Rudy and The Blind Side both involve an American pastime and people surmounting difficult situations to achieve goals. One of the most inspirational films, however, would have to be Remember the Titans. Watching this football team work together towards a common goal is sure to leave you with a driven attitude.

Food: If you’re inspired about life, maybe you’re also inspired to cook up something delicious. Instead of just throwing a bag of popcorn in the microwave, add a little something extra. After popping this moviewatching necessity, sprinkle on some cinnamon and sugar if you want CINNAMON something sweet. Or maybe add some SUGAR parmesan cheese for a more unique flavor.

Depressed Mood: Maybe you’re upset. Your boyfriend or girlfriend might have just broken up with you, or you didn’t get enough likes on your latest Instagram post. It’s possible that you might have just failed the History test that you spent all night studying for. Nothing anyone can say or do will make you feel better. Sometimes when you feel this unhappy, all you want to do is keep feeling down. Turning off the lights and playing a sad movie is often the only activity that sounds appealing.

Movie: To keep wallowing in your sadness, it’s best to watch a movie that mirrors your disheartening circumstances. If you just experienced a difficult breakup, pick a complicated romance story like 500 Days of Summer. Also, Nicholas Sparks is a master at creating sad stories. Movies like The Notebook or A Walk to Remember are perfect examples. If you’re not in the mood for a romance story, try a movie based off something that happened in real life. Nothing is more depressing than a sad true story. Into the Wild portrays the real-life story of a man that ventures off into the Alaskan wilderness and endures an array of hardships. One movie, however, captures the saddening emotions of both lost love and reality. Titanic is probably the best upsetting movie to watch.

Food: Break open the sweets and bring out the ice cream tub. When upset, people tend to eat junk food. Although not the healthiest choice, sweets like a hot fudge sundae often coincide with a depressed mood. A mountain of vanilla ice cream covered with chocolate sauce and topped off with nuts and a cherry will do the trick. may 10, 2013

the marquee

EHS BOOKDRIVE

SPOTLIGHT

photos

17

miranda chiechi

Central Elementary School was transformed overnight as the annual English Honor Society Book Carnival took place on April 19. The fair consisted of games, face and nail painting, food, a bounce house and almost 2,000 books that students and their families could take home. Members of various clubs, such as EHS, NHS, SHS, Mu Alpha Theta and Art Club all participated to provide the children with used and new books.

Senior Sarah Ainouz spent part of her time at the book painting faces. In between playing games and getting books, boys and girls had the chance to add colorful designs on their faces.

Senior Hannah West Nover and junior Jagnoor Sandhu helped paint nails at the fair. They had an assortment of colors for the children to choose from.

Seniors Carleigh Foutch and Samantha Elmendorf helped one of the students pick out a book. The fair had almost 2,000 new and used books children could choose from.

Junior Carter Koen and seniors Sam Karnes, Carmen Marxuach and Grant Vassar helped with handing out books. They enjoyed looking at the books they remember from their childhoods.

the marquee may 10, 2013

Senior Keara King celebrated with one of the kids at the fair as he “fished� and won a prize. This was one of the many stations of games at the carnival.

design hailey painter

18

SPORTS

Girls take field, boys cheer

r J

Sr

Juniors battle seniors in Powderpuff football game

photos

story ryan mcdearmont The lights burn bright in the football stadium. A crowd of people is in the stands on their feet, cheering for the teams. As the players run out, it’s clear something is different. Everyone is ready to play football, but it’s not the guys on the field. Tonight, the girls will play while the guys cheer as part of the school’s annual Powderpuff Football game.

The Powderpuff game is an intermural event open to all junior and senior girls that will take place tonight at 7:00 p.m. in the football stadium. While they play a game of flag football, boys serve as cheerleaders. The division between juniors and seniors can provide for some fierce competition.

“I found out last night [at practice] that a whole lot of girls want to play football,” varsity

cheerleading coach and the head of this year’s Powderpuff event Nema House said. “They were out there really giving it their best.”

While Powderpuff was a student council fundraiser in the past, this year the reins have been given over to House. Due to the low number of boys who have volunteered to cheer in the past, this year House pushed for a larger turnout.

“Our goal is to take it back to the traditional style of Powderpuff,” House said. “Originally when Powderpuff was created back in the day…the boys always cheered, and I’m trying to get it back to that because not many boys step up to cheer.”

However, the turnout for the girls this year was far from disappointing.

“I had about 60 seniors sign up and about 50 juniors,” House said. “So it’s a pretty good

amount.”

Although the boys involved have an important job in cheering, House says that isn’t the only reason why they are there.

“We just want the boys to support the girls playing football like the girls support the boys,” House said.

In addition to cheering, boys from the football teams are enlisted to help coach the girl teams, with five guy coaches on each team.

“A couple of the guys on the football team decided to do it,” Junior football player Michael McMillan said. “And it sounded like fun, so I signed up.”

McMillan is a coach for the junior Powderpuff team. Despite the unusual circumstances of Powderpuff, his coaching is business as usual.

Why you did Powderpuff: “I felt like it would be a good opportunity to meet other people in my grade…and just to have fun.”

Why you did Powderpuff: “I think it’ll be fun and a lot of my friends are seniors so it’s cool to go up against them.”

Why you did Powderpuff: “Just to have fun and do something different.”

Greatest strength: “Being positive.”

Greatest strength: “[being the] defensive lineman.”

kady kohankie

“We coach the girls up and tell them what to do with their positions,” McMillan said.

“We assign positions and make plays and stuff like that.”

According to House, the practices for the girls are for both skills and safety.

“The girls have to attend three practices in order to play,” House said. “We want to make sure they’re safe. They need to understand how to play.”

In fact, House says that one of her favorite parts of Powderpuff is seeing the changed viewpoints of the students involved. “[I like] letting the kids get another perspective on what football is all about,” House said. “It just kind of helps to build the excitement for the upcoming football season.

I think it puts a new perspective on what the boys are going through with spring training.”

“ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ Greatest weakness: “I can be very competitive.”

Game plan: “Having a good attitude and having fun…not taking [the game] too seriously.”

Message for the other team: “Good luck.”

Marisol Huerta, 11

design sydney sund

Greatest weakness: “I’m not very good at throwing the ball.”

Game plan: “We’re just going to win.

That’s my game plan.”

Message for the other team: “They might want to watch out.”

Brooke Allen, 11

Greatest strength: “Throwing the football; I’m pretty good at throwing.”

Greatest weakness: “My speed.”

Game plan :“Probably just to outsmart them, because they’re not that intelligent.”

Message for the other team: “Watch out, because we’re going to win.”

Sierra Bone, 12

Why you did Powderpuff: “I didn’t get to participate last year, so this year I really wanted to do it.”

Greatest strength: “I feel like I am a leader and I can put people up and get people excited.”

Greatest weakness: “I don’t have one.”

Game plan: “Trick them…try to scare them.”

Message for the other team: “We’re going to win.”

Kelsey Shake, 12 may 10, 2013

the marquee

SPORTS

19

State ultimatum

Ultimate team succeeds in spring league, returns to state story maddy ermenio

Senior Rafael Verissimo throws a flick to a teammate up field during a game against Coppell.

It was a calm morning outside, but senior Tyler Niskanen was feeling everything but calm. He was nervous and doubtful, anxious for the game to begin. Most members of the ultimate frisbee team remained unfazed – competing against college teams was all part of the routine to them. However, this was Niskanen’s first opportunity to compete against the University of North Texas team, and he was feeling the pressure.

During the game, one of the players on the UNT team pulled him aside to give him encouragement and tips. Niskanen said that his first game made him love the laid-back and easygoing nature of ultimate.

“Even if we don’t win, we get experience from it,” Niskanen said. “When we play the college teams, they give us pointers on how to improve our game.”

All of this preparation has paid off, as the team is advancing to the state tournament this weekend. As for Niskanen, he first began playing ultimate his junior year to spend quality time with his twin brother Jake and older brother Eric, who was a senior at the time. Being on the team helped the three of them bond in the midst of homework, jobs and other extracurricular activities.

Many other members of the team were motivated to join ultimate after they stopped playing another sport but wanted to continue to be active and find a solid group of friends.

“I feel like we all grew a connection to each other so that now we have that bond and that will to fight for each other as a team,” Niskanen said.

Niskanen said that the team’s record is 9-3 so far. Several weeks ago on April 20, the team lost to Coppell, ending their streak of consecutive victories. The team hopes to continue improving before the state tournament. The team won the state championship two years ago and placed third last year.

“We don’t believe in setting goals that involve failure,” coach Rob Doyle said. “Our goal is always to win the state championship. We think that we have the talent, and we think that we have the drive to do it.”

Senior teammate Jessica Gomez said that the team has improved its performance through consistent exercise and practice both on and off the field. The team practices at least once a week year-round, and twice during the spring season.

In addition, players practice on their own to stay conditioned.

Even before the high school ultimate season began this year, players continued to work at improving their game.

Some students registered to compete in a league for high school and adult competitors called the Dallas Winter League.

Players from ultimate at school formed their own teams based on the television show “The Simpsons,” with names modeled after cartoon characters like Mojo. Through the league, the team gained the experience of competing against older, more accomplished players, which in turn advanced their own skills.

“Playing year-round gives us an edge over other teams,” Niskanen said. “We learn to play in the cold, in the rain and in the wind.”

According to Doyle, the team captains, including junior Trever Davis and the Niskanen twins, are some of the most valuable players because of their substantial leadership and commitment to the sport. In addition to efficient captains, the team also has a strong connection that has given them an advantage against opponents.

“For the most part, we get along really well,” Davis said.

“There are a few things we do mess up on every now and then, but our chemistry is pretty spot-on.”

Gomez also said that although the team has talent, some of the competition may include stronger teams.

“We’re not the biggest or the fastest,” Gomez said. “But we know how to play the sport. We know the rules, and we know the game.”

Senior captain Tyler Niskanen throws a flick around the defender during a spring league game against another high school.

photos amanda collen Senior Kyle Davis lays out for the disk during a game against the University of Arkansas.

the marquee

may 10, 2013

Junior captain Trever Davis throws a backhand during the scrimmage game against Coppell High School. Davis started playing on the team as a sophomore.

design hailey painter

OPINION

BOOMBAS [things we like]

20

scariest photo

AP Review Sessions

EHS book drive

Education Boost

Some teachers are taking time out of their busy schedules to prepare students for the AP exams that are coming up.

This has not only proved helpful but also relieves some of the students’ stress from studying.

The extra training is really appreciated.

English Honor Society has collected children’s books from the student body for the annual book carnival at Central Elementary. The fun-filled carnival was overflowing with thousands of books that were given to children. Great job to all who helped out.

The Wall of Fame in the Library is for graduated Marcus students who have achieved an amazing goal, such as being mayor of Highland Village. Some new names have been added recently. Good job for recognizing those who have helped the community.

Ryan McDearmont

Stressful adjustments If a movie villain ever really wanted to torture James Bond, they wouldn’t have to strap him down and hold a laser over him. They wouldn’t even have to beat him to a pulp like in Casino Royale. As I’ve learned, the best way to torture someone is simply to make them move into a new house.

It might take a while, but Dr. No could wait several years for Bond to get comfy in his current residence and then force him to move. Somewhere in the middle of nowhere, a place most moving services don’t deliver to. Bond would have to endure the endless cycle of cleaning and showing his home, moving his furniture and painting his bedroom a “neutral color.” Then, he would need to renovate the “problem areas” of his home, negotiate with his real-estate agent and jump through a whole slew of hoops. Eventually, the mental anguish would become too much for Bond and he would crack, spilling all the British Secret Service secrets or whatever it is that James Bond gets tortured over.

I’m not James Bond, but I am in the slow process of moving houses. I’m happy to say that I haven’t lost my mind yet, but I’ve come close a couple times. When I first started writing this column, we had someone who was about to close on our house and finally take it off our hands. They backed out of the deal about a week ago, and we had to put the house back on the market.

Fortunately, we’re currently living in a temporary residence, which is good because the house is empty and we no longer have to clean it before every showing. Sadly, that’s only a brief respite from the insanity. At some point, my family and I are going to have to move an hour and a half east of here to a little town called Sulphur Springs and at the same time help me move almost four hours south to UT in Austin. The flaming chainsaw juggler has nothing on us.

Something important I’ve learned during this period is that those who visit your house in this process don’t work on normal people’s concept of time. When we expected appraisers to visit our house at 2:00 p.m. to take measurements, only one guy showed up, and he was two hours late. He took some pictures on a tiny camera and then promptly left. We haven’t seen him since. I can only assume that he has gone on to inflict his terrible brand of late-arrival misery on other poor, innocent homebuyers.

By far the most “fun” part of moving was when the inspectors came to our house. We expected them on a Saturday. We found out on Wednesday that they were coming Thursday.

Let me just say, I do not wish having to speed-clean an entire house in one day on my worst enemy. That is torture. Now I know what is truly the best way to punish my future children.

To add to our list of problems, we’re still trying to figure out exactly what kind of house we’ll be moving to in Sulphur Springs. Right now, we’re considering a beautiful house that was built in the 1900s. I’ve always wanted to live in a house old enough to have ghosts of ghosts.

I think I can safely say that the last two months or so have been one of the more stressful periods of my time at Marcus, if not my life. However, there is one thing I can say I learned from this experience: Unless the alternative is being crushed by a massive, flaming meteoroid coming right for your house, then try not to ever move houses.

Then again, the meteoroid option does sound slightly more enjoyable.

design sydney sund

flapper girl

Marisa Charpentier

Living through books As I was growing up, books were my life. I remember craving the moments when I could lose myself in the depths of a good book, when the house was dark except for the circle of light shining down from my bedside lamp. I could spend hours with my nose in one of the Magic Tree House adventures, learning about ancient Egyptians or outer space. Books lined the shelves in my house. Harry Potter and Junie B. Jones would act as bookends to the variety of paperbacks that stood between. I think it’s safe to say the term “book worm” that was printed on the front of one of my favorite t-shirts was a fitting title.

Looking back, I probably spent the majority of my childhood with my eyes glued to a good book. If my life wasn’t consumed by schoolwork and extracurriculars, I would probably still spend the majority of my time with a novel in front of me.

But recently I’ve been wondering if maybe all that time I spent reading about adventures was a waste. Maybe I should have been creating my own experiences in real life instead of allowing words on a page to control my thoughts.

I’m not saying I should’ve been waving magic wands or attempting to defeat evil in real life. But maybe instead of reading about kids exploring the world, I should’ve been a kid exploring the world. Some people say you can never truly learn anything unless you learn it firsthand. If there is any truth in this statement, then does that mean all of the time I’ve spent reading and learning lessons from literature was pointless?

How

do you

think tanning affects teenagers’ lives?

Was learning about the wilderness in The Call of the Wild unnecessary when I could’ve been exploring my backyard on my own? Was reading about the difficulties of growing up in the many “tween” books that found their way onto my bookshelf completely useless when I could’ve been focusing on my own obstacles?

But then again, I guess not everything can be learned through experience. In this case, books are the closest things we have to understanding certain circumstances. Unless someone invents a time machine, I don’t see how anyone can learn about the life of medieval civilians through actual experience. No matter how much research is done or how many reenactments happen in that out-of-place building in Dallas, no one will ever fully understand what it was like to be a medieval jouster. In a way, I guess that’s kind of upsetting. People dedicate their lives to learning about the past, something no one will ever entirely comprehend unless they have lived it.

If the same is true for all of the books I’ve dedicated my time to reading, then that’s pretty scary. We always try to learn from others’ mistakes, and I guess that’s why books are often used to teach lessons. But if you don’t live through the hardship, the struggle or the difficult decision, are you still able to fully comprehend the consequences or the lessons learned?

What is knowledge without your own experience?

A part of me wants to believe that some knowledge and morals are best learned through books, and others through experience. I guess there’s some truth to this statement as well. For some of us who grew up in the suburbs of Flower Mound, it’s hard to comprehend what life is like not knowing where your next meal will come from or what living in another country feels like. And if we never have to face the decision of choosing between our own life and someone else’s, there’s not much we can or would want to do to put ourselves in that situation. In these cases, a book is the closest thing we have to understanding. Through books, we can walk in someone else’s shoes to try to grasp an experience or point of view, something I learned from reading To Kill a Mockingbird.

So maybe there are some things we can only learn from experience, but a book can get us pretty close. In the end, maybe it’s better to have learned something rather than to have learned nothing at all. And I guess with time, more experiences will come and more knowledge as well. Who knows, maybe someday I’ll even learn to put down the books every once in a while and go out and see the world. From what I’ve read, it’s a pretty adventurous place.

“It can lead to health issues and screw up your way of thinking.

If you think you have to look like someone else to feel like you’re beautiful, then that’s just wrong.”

Jayda Jones, 9 compiled maddy ermenio photos courtney clubb

“Tanning affects teenagers’ lives in a positive manner.

It makes them look better.”

Tyler Boyd, 10 may 10, 2013

the marquee

OPINION Hallway drama

Locked S hall door

Doors are hitting people due to the mixture of crowded hallways and students rushing to class. Numerous people have been smacked by opening classroom and bathroom doors. Students should open doors slowly and be courteous to others in the halls.

Amanda Collen

Enjoying my Plan B My feet move quickly - left, right, left - as the set is sent straight to me. Hearing the crowd roar, I make sure to time my jump perfectly. Smack. The perfect corner shot spike.

Screams and cheers were all that I could hear after a great victory playing my favorite sport, volleyball.

Waking up at 5:00 in the morning most Saturdays during club ball season wasn’t exactly enjoyable, especially when the tournament was across town. However, I loved the adrenaline rush of the intense competition on the court. I was so obsessed with volleyball that I would talk about it any chance I got. I would even draw volleyballs on my school papers and incorporate them into art projects.

Volleyball consumed my life, and it was the only sport in which I excelled. I often found myself not being able to hang out with my friends who weren’t in volleyball because I had practice or a tournament to attend.

Freshman year I was determined to make the Marcus volleyball team. The summer before consisted of numerous volleyball camps in order to prepare for Aug. 1, the day my summer ended and volleyball tryouts began. When the coaches finalized the teams, my hands shook uncontrollably as it was my turn to face the coaches and hear their decision. A stream of emotions ran through my body when they told me I made the Freshman Red team. I ran out the door, straight to my friends and family to share the good news. I was ecstatic and I couldn’t wait for the season to start.

The schedule was reversed to run backwards during a major week of EOC testing. Many students were not prepared, and seniors with off periods came to school groggy or could not go to work. This idea caused confusion to not just students but some teachers and faculty as well.

HEYS

hummus girl

Upside down schedule

[things we don’t like]

The locking of the S hall doors has proven to be an inconvenience. Although it is a new safety measure, it is a hassle for students with classes in the portables and those who park near the S hall. The school is already crowded. Closing an entrance adds to the frustration.

Around the middle of our season I started to feel shooting pain in both of my feet. I tried to work through it, but it became too excruciating to even walk some days. An orthopedic doctor diagnosed me with Tendonitis in both of my feet. This injury prevented me from playing to my fullest potential. Once the season was over, it was time for the coaches to make player cuts. I was cut from the team. As soon as I heard the devastating news, my eyes quickly filled with burning tears of sadness and anger. I didn’t know what I was going to do without volleyball. It had become my life as a freshman in high school, and it was the only extracurricular activity I did.

As reality set in, I knew my volleyball days were numbered.

After many painful discussions with my mom, I decided it was time to explore other potential interests. I made the decision to try the film-photography class.

This one class opened new opportunities for me, like Newspaper. I became a designer and photographer on The Marquee staff the next year. Not only did I find my niche in Newspaper, but I became a member of many different clubs like the Friends of Rachel Club, Circle of Friends and Mu Alpha Theta.

When working a booth for Friends of Rachel during freshman orientation, I decided to explore some of the clubs even though I was a sophomore. Glancing around the commons, I saw an Ultimate frisbee booth, and that’s when it all started. I grabbed a brochure, and then two players began talking me into joining. I was pretty hesitant at first so I said maybe.

Within the next few weeks, I went to a practice to try it out even though I didn’t know anyone on the team. To this day I am so delighted that I had the courage to try something new.

My teammates are like my extended family My sophomore and junior years have been the best school years I’ve ever experienced. Ultimate and Newspaper have really changed my life for the better. They both have helped me get over the fact I am no longer playing volleyball and discover that I have other talents. Ultimate brings out my competitive and enthusiastic side that I had while playing volleyball.

Newspaper has taught me leadership skills I will need for the future as well as how to write a decent column.

Five years ago I would have never imagined being a part of the newspaper staff or the Ultimate Frisbee team. I used to always talk about volleyball, and now I am constantly talking about ultimate or Newspaper. It’s interesting how one change in your life can play a major role in your future. My high school plan didn’t necessarily turn out the way I initially envisioned, but I’ve made the most of Plan B.

MARQUEE REMARKS “People become obsessed with it and it becomes a top priority. I think it’s unhealthy.”

Kathryn Hickl, 11 the marquee may 10, 2013

21

“It’s a style. People tan to look better and become obsessed with how they look.”

“It creates a more superficial existence for teenagers. I think it’s detrimental in that sense.”

Daniel Dominski, 12

Lauran Popp, English

morning sunshine

Maddy Ermenio

Words of wisdom

At first impression, you might be surprised to find out that I am 17 years old.

For years now, people have mistaken me for being much younger than I really am. Most people assume my 14-year-old little sister is the oldest child in the family. I get suspicious glances when I pull out my car keys from my purse. I receive questioning from so many people on a daily basis. The ticket seller at the movies asking if I have a parent with me so I can see an R-rated movie. The college admissions officer asking if I’m starting my college search early because she thinks I’m a freshman. My personal favorite – the nail lady comparing my image to that of my sister. I can always count on the manicurists to make some sort of comment on my seemingly younglooking appearance.

“Honey, how old are you?” they ask.

“Seventeen,” I reply, and the two manicurists exchange an amused glance.

“Honey, you look 12. She looks older,” they say, pointing a finger at my smirking sister.

Years of reinforcement that I look younger than my actual age has affected my self-esteem. Even though I knew that my short stature and petite frame were the reasons that people were mistaken about my age, I still felt insulted every time someone assumed me to be a mere child. It was difficult to be confident in myself when no one took me seriously. After all, who gives full respect and attention to a 12-year-old?

A few weeks ago on a Tuesday afternoon, everything changed. I was attending a meeting with a group of middle school girls whose club I sponsor. I noticed that there was a new member of the club, so I introduced myself. Her name was Kelly, and when she found out how old I was, she looked surprised. I tried to laugh it off, saying that it was funny how we were five years apart but still the same height. All of a sudden, she got this serious look on her face, as if she were in deep thought about what I had just said.

She looked me dead in the eye and said, “But we all come in different shapes and sizes. I think you’re beautiful.”

I was stunned. I couldn’t believe how mature and wise this girl was at such a young age. One minute ago, Kelly and I were complete strangers, but now she didn’t hesitate to instill confidence in me.

Kelly was right. Even though I have been told before that I am beautiful despite my outward appearance, it’s never hit home for me. It meant so much more when Kelly said it because I knew she said it from the heart.

Since I met Kelly, I haven’t been dwelling on my height, weight or my outward appearance in general. I learned that there is always a new perspective to be gained and encouragement to be offered. It only took Kelly three seconds to say one sweet sentence that completely flipped my perspective. She brought so much optimism into my life in such a simple way.

I am so grateful that I met Kelly because she showed me how much you can change a person’s world just by shining some positive light into their life.

Kelly, you taught me to love who I am and embrace it. I finally understand that having a healthy self-image and being confident in what you have been given is so important. So yes, I am a different shape than you. Yes, I am a different size than you. And yes, I am beautiful. design sydney sund

22

EDITORIALS

Public should have ‘media literacy,’ use multiple news sources Staff Editorial In the aftermath of the bombing in Boston, many people said the news media is not doing its job. Complaints emerged that news sources reported facts that were repetitive, inaccurate or blatantly obvious. Viewers felt the news either jumped to conclusions far too quickly or gave so few facts that they might as well not even have been reporting. As per usual, most came away with a distaste for mainstream news that is becoming more prevalent in society. Perhaps the problem is not with the news, but rather with those who consume it. In our age of information, it is becoming urgently necessary to have a sense of “media literacy.”

Our country today has become overwhelmed by the sheer number of sources for news. With so many options in so many formats, consumers must learn how to differentiate between “good” information and “bad” information. Most viewers will willingly believe any sort of information presented to them.

They won’t even question it until they hear something to the contrary.

There used to be a time when there were few news sources, and what they presented was the “absolute truth,” or at least

it was perceived as being the truth. These days, the biases of certain news channels are well-known. Fox News is a republican paradise, while MSNBC tends to lean towards the left more than once in a while. With all these options, it doesn’t make much sense to trust only one place for news.

Part of this issue is the pressure placed on news sources to be the first to report. It’s made even worse by the growth of the Internet and social media. Information moves faster, and news outlets have to be fast to be relevant.

Since so many things are happening in the world at once, a single event becomes forgotten in the sea of content produced per day. In the onset of amateur Twitter journalism, mainstream sources are becoming less relevant. The only way to hang on is to be first with the newest stories, which means some outlets don’t even bother to confirm news before posting it.

The situation is made even worse by the Internet and social media. The ability to easily share news stories over Twitter means they spread like wildfire, regardless of their validity.

Without taking the time to confirm the truth of stories, people get easily panicked and spread the panic without giving a second thought. This type of brainlessness has caused trouble time and time again and will continue to do so in the future.

To solve this, it is best to check a story with multiple sources.

A good example of this is the recent incident in which a fake tweet about an explosion at the White House was posted by a hacked news Twitter. Since nobody thought to confirm this with any other source, it was retweeted thousands of times, causing a panic that caused the Stock Market to plummet.

If a bomb had really gone off at the White House, wouldn’t more than one news outlet be reporting on it? It’s this lack of “common news sense” that leads to so many people becoming disillusioned by the media.

There is only one way to keep the populace both informed and generally trusting of the media. Consumers and news readers must find it in themselves to not mindlessly absorb every bit of information that is thrown at them. People must develop the skills to consume multiple sources of news and decide for themselves what is relevant in the story and what of the story is extraneous information. This is a skill that is becoming more valuable in technology’s onset and must be learned. Soon, it will become totally necessary in our culture, not just in news.

In a way, people must learn to think like journalists. With any luck, our society can be become more news literate and more informed.

Students should limit sun exposure, be more aware of effects Staff Editorial People are constantly fed images from media about what they should look like or what is considered beautiful. These images come from magazine ads, television, movies and sometimes even books. If someone were to open a fashion magazine, that person might notice that many of the models are tan. Because these models look “beautiful that way,” a lot of times people take risks to be the same way. Many people let themselves bake beneath the sun or utilize tanning beds for an even quicker result. These people are too focused on their appearances and aren’t aware of the detrimental effects that tanning can cause. People should limit their exposure to the sun because of those effects. It’s just too much of a risk.

Everyone is aware that sun exposure can cause a sunburn.

However, a lot of people do not realize the true extent of the damaging effects tanning can have on the body. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause major health problems.

Sunlight gives off UV rays, which are known to cause melanoma—a dangerous type of skin cancer. Those rays can also cause the skin to become thinner, therefore extending the time it takes for wounds to heal properly. Additionally, prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause ocular cancer, premature aging and basal cell carcinoma. This goes for both tanning beds and just simply tanning beneath the sun. People should put on sunscreen before they go outside beneath the hot sun. If doing this is a bother, people should ask themselves if walking around with malignant skin cancer for the rest of their lives is really worth looking darker for the summer.

Some spend their summers tanning by the pool, but this time would be better spent elsewhere. Even though people shouldn't set aside time to tan, they can still go outside, which in itself is healthy. Skin does absorb all sorts of vitamins from the sun and can instantly lift a person’s mood. Many fun activities can be found outside, such as riding their bike, walking their dog or just simply jogging. Tanning periodically for short periods of time is okay too. But, if the sun is out on a hot summer day, all of this should be done while wearing sunscreen and the time a person is exposed to the sun should be limited.

Hollywood might see tanning as the key to true beauty, but tanning does not guarantee beauty or happiness. Teens might get this idea from models or actors they see in the media design hailey painter

that do in fact look good with tanned skin. The pictures and images shown in the media are altered or Photoshopped to be a certain way. Tanning does not have the same effect on everyone. People should wake up and realize that following what the media has presented as beautiful may have detrimental effects of its own. Tanning ages skin, so whatever result someone may get from tanning may drastically change the way they look as they age. Choosing to tan for unhealthy

periods of time can make someone look older, as it produces wrinkles and ages skin. When looking back, these sunbathers might regret making that unhealthy decision that altered their appearance.

Though a little sunshine is good for the body, people should pay attention to how much time they set aside to lay underneath the sun. The risks someone takes with prolonged sun exposure are far greater than the benefits.

Select-A-Damage

radiation premature aging blistering sunburn basal cell carcinoma malignant melanoma cataracts and corneal burns

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24

SPOTLIGHT

On Broadway

The Silver Stars performed several routines at Spring Show. The Silver Stars are directed by Lauren Murry.

The Marquettes perform the Rock of Ages routine at Spring Show in the Marcus auditorium. Artists in this segment included Journey, Twisted Sister and The Rolling Stones.

The annual Marquette Spring Show took place on April 18-20. This year’s theme was Broadway, and the shows sold out for all three days. Several groups performed including Briarhill Dance, Silver Stars and local dance academies. photo jordan richards Senior Kayla Damron dances a hiphop routine.

Junior Hannah Birdsall (right) danced in the “Let’s Get Glam” number. This dance was choreagraphed by Julie Confer. may 10, 2013

the marquee

Senior Syerra Nelms participated in the team hip-hop number during the Spring Show.

Senior Aloria Prince (center) finishes the opening routine of the show to “On Broadway”. Prince was the captain of the Marquettes this year.

design courtney clubb